Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Style)

Serves: 3–4 | Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 15 min | Total Time: 25 min

Intro:

If you love bold takeout flavors, this Thai Basil Chicken is going to hit the spot. It’s spicy, savory, slightly sweet, and packed with fresh basil flavor. This easy one-pan meal comes together fast and tastes like authentic Thai street food right at home.

Why This Works:

The combination of garlic, chilies, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and fresh basil creates that classic sweet-salty-spicy Thai flavor that makes Pad Krapow so addictive.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 Thai chilies (or 1 tsp chili paste)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp fish sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 cup fresh basil
• 1 tbsp oil (sesame preferred)

Kitchen Tools Needed:

• Wok
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife set and cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Garlic press

Prep:

1. Press garlic and mince chilies
2. Wash basil leaves
3. Measure sauces ahead of time for quick cooking

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Cook garlic and chilies until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add ground chicken and cook until browned.
4. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar.
5. Cook another 2–3 minutes until slightly caramelized.
6. Toss in fresh basil and stir until wilted.
7. Serve hot over white rice.
8. Optional: Top with a crispy fried egg for authentic street-food style.

Notes:

• Thai basil gives the most authentic flavor, but regular basil still works well.
• Adjust chilies depending on heat preference.
• A wok gives the best high-heat flavor and slight char.

Goes Great With:

• White jasmine rice
• Fried egg
• Cucumber salad
• Thai iced tea